Translational research: understanding the continuum from bench to bedside.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Research
• Translational Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Translating scientific discoveries to clinical applications and public health improvements is a critical objective in biomedical research.
• The current model of the translation continuum is limited as it focuses primarily on translational research, neglecting other crucial components.
• This narrow focus is ineffective for describing the entire progression of knowledge from basic science to health gains.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize existing literature on the terminology and models of scientific translation.
• To propose a modified model, the Biomedical Research Translation Continuum, to encompass the entire translation process.
• To provide a clear framework for researchers to understand and describe their work and identify barriers to progress.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of current terminology and models of scientific translation.
• Development of a modified conceptual framework for the translation continuum.
• Definition of the Biomedical Research Translation Continuum to describe knowledge progression from laboratory to health.

Main Results:

• The current model inadequately represents the full scope of the translation process.
• A proposed modification introduces the Biomedical Research Translation Continuum framework.
• This framework defines the complete translation process, including implementation and adoption.
• The framework aims to clarify the evolving models of translation for researchers.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive framework is needed to effectively describe and advance the translation of biomedical research.
• The proposed Biomedical Research Translation Continuum offers a clearer conceptual model for understanding the progression of knowledge.
• This framework can improve research descriptions, facilitate discussions, and identify barriers in the translation process.